Looking for a gift that boosts health? Wearables are a smart choice. From sleek smart rings to cutting-edge augmented reality glasses, these gadgets can take workouts to the next level and help manage overall health. Mia Chorney, DNP, HonorHealth Cardiovascular Genetics Program and David Carfagno, DO, medical director, HonorHealth Medical Fitness, dive into the benefits and limits of wearables, plus share expert tips on getting the most out of these powerful tools.
“These advancements are part of a trend towards more integrative, health-focused and user-centric wearable devices,” says Chorney. “Advanced sensors and the introduction of AI are improving daily life through technology.”
“Fitness wearables have evolved into multi-functional devices that not only track physical activity, but also monitor various health metrics, including heartrate variability, blood oxygen, sleep patterns and even stress levels,” adds Carfagno. “The rise of wearable technology has been fueled by advancements in sensors, battery life and connectivity, making these devices more accurate and user friendly.”
A journey hundreds of years in the making
One of the first wearable type devices on record, the pedometer, which counts steps taken, dates back hundreds of years. Introduced by U.S. by Founding Father Thomas Jefferson in the 1800s, this rudimentary tool didn’t become commercially successful until the 1960s when the first digital versions of the device came out.
1972 marked another wearable milestone when the pulse oximeter, a finger sensor still used today across healthcare facilities that measures oxygen saturation and pulse rate, was patented.
“The real transformation began in the early 2000s with the advent of digital technology including fitness trackers,” says Carfagno. “These devices combined step tracking with calorie counting and sleep monitoring, appealing to a broader audience beyond athletes.”
A medical tool, not a replacement
The many benefits also come with a cautionary note – these devices have limitations and are not a replacement for medical or professional assessments.
“As a provider for patients using wearables, I always encourage setting realistic health goals that are achievable and in line with their current medical condition and fitness levels,” Chorney says. “Patients need to understand wearables are supplementary tools rather than a definitive diagnostic device.” She also points out that the data can be helpful during regular check ins with your doctor, providing insights into daily habits, sleep patterns and heartrate trends. They are also great for motivating patients to set, meet and expand their health goals.
A must have for athletes
As technology evolves, it’s leading to better and faster advancements in sports medicine, according to Carfagno, by providing valuable insights that can be leveraged to improve athletic performance. By looking at the data, coaches and trainers can create tailored programs to address strengths, weaknesses and recovery needs on an individual level.
“In addition to optimizing training regimens, athletes can use these devices to monitor physical exertion and recovery, helping prevent overtraining and injuries. They can also help in rehabilitation situations by providing real-time feedback for patients and healthcare providers, ensuring rehab exercises are performed correctly and effectively.”
Endless possibilities
Wearable technology is increasingly designed to be inclusive, catering to individuals of all ages, abilities and medical conditions. Through enhanced sensors, AI and machine learning, and more sophisticated data on a wide range of metrics, training and treatment plans can be adjusted in near real time by your healthcare professional.
“The small nudges to perform healthy actions throughout the day can create a lifestyle centered around proactive and preventive health management,” Chorney adds. “Wearables build self-awareness and provide real-time feedback supporting wellness and enhancing quality of life.”
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